MONTANA GUIDED HUNTING TRIPS FOR ELK, WHITETAIL AND MULE DEER, MOUNTAIN GOAT, BIG HORN SHEEP, AND MOOSE

Linehan Outfitting Company provides trophy Montana guided hunting trips for all big game species here in Montana including elk, whitetail and mule deer, moose, bighorn sheep, mountain goat, black bear, cougar and wolf. More information about seasons and tags can be found on the Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks website. We are passionate about our big game hunting and like to hunt the old fashioned way. Montana is all about fair chase. We uphold and believe in the philosophy of fair chase. This is big country and there are no fences here, no baiting allowed, and we like to hit the ground before it gets light and hang in there until it gets dark. We hunt on foot so if possible, show up in good shape. If you have a bad knee or some other issue, no problem. We can work with that. But be sure to let us know ahead of time so we can plan accordingly.

HUNT BLACK BEAR, COUGAR, AND WOLF IN MONTANA

We have a huge big game public lands concession here in the extreme northwest corner of Montana permitted by the Kootenai National Forest. We rarely see other hunters during the day. This area is not typical big sky country. Instead, it’s a place where the Pacific rainforest ecosystem crashes into the spine of the Rocky Mountains. It’s a place of big, coniferous forests full of huge western larch, Douglas fir, cedars, lodgepole pines, ponderosa pines, and a place of tremendous biological diversity. This area is thick, green, lush, and every day smells like Christmas when you’re in the woods. To that end, we employ all aspects of traditional still hunting including spot and stalk, stands, calling and stalking throughout a typical day.

Winter Wilderness Wolf Hunting

Montana wolf hunting is like no other adventure.  There is nothing more symbolic of wilderness than wolves.  And nothing more moving than hearing wolves howl.  Since Montana opened the wolf hunt, we have been studying, tracking, and interacting with them and loving every minute of it.  They are truly an awesome creature.  Make no mistake, wolves are also the most difficult trophy to hunt in the lower 48 states.  Knowing that keeps us sharp and wanting to learn more.  This is a hunting adventure you’ll never forget!

• SEASON(S): Late October-March 15

Elk Hunting with Rifles

During the rifle season bulls have started to move away from cows and become more solitary.  That means first we find them by hiking to the ridgetops, and then we slow down and hunt them. Our rifle elk hunts are all about putting in the time.  Average shot distance is 100 yards.  We like to get close and we are always generally in deep timber. Slipping in on a big, solo bull is as exciting as it gets!

• SEASON(S): End of October through End of November
• CALIBER:270 mag, 280, 7mm mag, 30-06, 300

Archery Elk Hunting with Bow and Arrow

Our Montana archery elk hunting area includes over 300 square miles.  This is some of the best big game habitat in the lower 48 states.  Our local population of elk live in dark timber.  Hunting elk during the rut is all about bugling, cow calling and getting in close, real close.  Archery hunts are not for the faint of heart.  Being within bow range of a big bull will red line your adrenaline levels and test your skills!

• SEASON(S):Mid-September through mid-October

Montana Black Bear Hunting

We are proud to offer Montana bear hunting trips with our professional guides. This northwest corner of Montana has some of the highest populations of black bears in the lower 48 states.  And Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks, our wildlife management agency, notes our area as being the best black bear hunting in the entire state.  Our black bear hunting area approaches 500 square miles. Focus your binoculars and decide if that’s the one you want.

• SEASON(S): Mid-April through Mid-May (Spring), September 1 through September 14 (Fall Archery), September 15 through November 25 (Fall Rifle)
• CALIBER:270, 30-06, 7mm mag, 300

Montana Hunting License Information

It’s important to bring enough gun. Since we encourage you to get the deer/elk combination license, it’s necessary to keep in mind that elk are significantly bigger than deer. Nothing beats a good shot and that’s what matters most. Please be comfortable with your rifle and spend time at the range before you arrive. Appropriate calibers include 30-06, 300, 7mm mag, 280 and 270 mags.

Special Licenses & Tags

Moose, bighorn sheep and mountain goat licenses are available through an annual special lottery drawing. Each year we have the opportunity to guide a few lucky hunters on some epic adventures.

• SEASON(S): Mid-September through November 25 depending on species
• SPECIES: Moose, Bighorn Sheep, Mountain Goat
• CALIBER: 270 mag, 280, 7mm mag, 30-06, 300

Customized Fly Fishing Trips on Montana Lakes and Streams

For over twenty years we’ve been consistently named one of the best outfitters in the west. Diversity is the name of the game here at Linehan Outfitting Company, and we believe having options greatly contributes to the success of a fishing adventure. We have lodging options, fishing options, and enough package options to satisfy anyone.

If you’ve not fished the northwest corner of Montana, it’s time you did. Kootenai country is truly far less traveled than other, more famous parts of the state and it’s extraordinarily beautiful. This northwest corner of the state is much more like a rainforest and not typical “Big Sky Country.” Instead, it’s a place of steep, rugged, heavily forested mountains and lush, green valleys. This northwest corner of the state is far less traveled and is more like the Pacific Northwest ecosystem than traditional big sky country. It’s green, lush, mountainous, and we’re not exaggerating when we say less crowded. Seriously, we only see a couple other drift boats on the water each day. If we’re fishing remote smaller rivers, we don’t see anyone…for days. And it’s a place where the people are friendly, where you’re made to feel welcome, and where you can still get away from it all.

The Linehan Outfitting Company staff of Montana fly fishing guides are some of the best in the state. We don’t see ourselves as a means to an end. We want you to learn, to experience facets of the sport you have never encountered before, and to come away from fishing with us with that “wow!” sense of accomplishment. It’s wrong to guarantee lots of fish or lots of big fish every day. Mother Nature does what she wants. Period. But we can guarantee our knowledge and can guarantee that you will be a better angler after you fish with us. And that’s what we believe you’re paying for anyway.

Clothing and Gear for Fly Fishing

Packing well is always a challenge and having the right fly fishing gear is essential to having a successful trip. Please refer to our fly fishing checklist before you bring a pile of unnecessary fly fishing gear. We’ve done this for a while, and we know how important some of your fly fishing gear is to you. But save yourself the stress and pack efficiently by keeping in mind that you don’t need to bring it all.

We want to make your trip as enjoyable as possible, please do not hesitate to contact us with any additional questions you may have.

• Fly fishing rod and reel outfit
• Waders, wading boots, and other personal fishing gear
• Rain jacket, fully waterproof
• Clothing, fishing and lodge variety
• Hat, wide-brimmed, for sun and eye protection
• Polarized sunglasses
• Day pack or fanny pack
• Sunscreen, SPF 20 or higher
• Insect repellant
• Personal medical supplies and prescriptions
• Personal hygiene supplies-toothbrush, shaving kit, etc
• Spare corrective eyewear, glasses, or contacts
• Camera
• Books and other reading materials
• Compact binoculars
• Bandana
• Flash light or head lamp with extra batteries

Clothing and Supplies Checklist for Fishing Trips in Montana

• NON-FISHING ATTIRE: Linehan Outfitting Company lodge and cabin settings are very casual and no special attire is necessary. Blue jeans, khakis, shorts, casual shirts, fishing shirts are all common.
• OUTERGARMENTS: Waterproof rain jacket, preferable lightweight and packable. Always carry this with you! Fishing specific Gortex or similar products are best. Layer for changing weather conditions. We recommend quick-drying synthetic materials such as polyester, nylon, etc. Even though you may be visiting in summer it’s always a good idea to include a good fleece jacket or similar wind-blocking product. Long-sleeved, quick-drying fishing shirts, pants and shorts. Gloves and stocking cap just in case.
• UNDERGARMENTS: Long underwear, top and bottom, at least one pair. Mid-weight, quick-drying is most versatile. For cold weather and water, use heavyweight underwear or fleece garments under breathable waders.
• FOOTWEAR: Sandals for float fishing. Neoprene booties or socks. Non-cotton socks. Smart wool or synthetic fleece is best.

RODS AND REELS

• 8.5 or 9-foot rod with 5 or 6 weight floating line is most appropriate and versatile
• 3-4 weight rod for small streams
• 5-6 weight rod for bigger rivers
• Matching reels and lines
• Sinking tip line

LEADERS AND TIPPETS

• 9-12 foot tapered leaders work throughout season
• Spools of 3x,4x,5x,6x tippet material
• Most versatile leader is 9-foot 4x

WADERS AND WADING BOOTS

• Lightweight/breathable waders with layers underneath
• Felt soled wading boots

OTHER STANDARD GEAR

• Fishing vest, hip-chest pack or other product to hold gear
• Fly floatant, paste or powder
• Nippers
• Forceps
• Optional-net and wading staff
• Fly fishing rod and reel outfit
• Waders, wading boots, and other personal fishing gear
• Rain jacket, fully waterproof
• Clothing, fishing and lodge variety
• Hat, wide-brimmed, for sun and eye protection
• Polarized sunglasses
• Day pack or fanny pack
• Sunscreen, SPF 20 or higher
• Insect repellant
• Personal medical supplies and prescriptions
• Personal hygiene supplies-toothbrush, shaving kit, etc
• Spare corrective eyewear, glasses, or contacts
• Camera
• Books and other reading materials
• Compact binoculars
• Bandana
• Flashlight or headlamp with extra batteries

Montana fishing licenses can be bought very easily at local sporting good stores and other locations around the state and more hunting and fishing information is always available at WWW.FWP.STATE.MT.US.

Travel Tips for Hunting in Montana

The three major airports servicing northwest Montana are Spokane, Washington, Kalispell, Montana, and Missoula, Montana. Below you’ll find directions and driving time to our locations. Keep in mind that our log cabins are located in Yaak, Montana, our Kootenai River House is located in Libby, Montana and our Anglers Hut is located in Libby, Montana. However, our mailing address is Troy, Montana but we have no business location in Troy. If you are heading to our Yaak log cabins, be certain to get your groceries before you head for the Yaak. That means either Bonners Ferry, Idaho, Troy or Libby, Montana depending on which direction you’re traveling.

The Kootenai River is located in the extreme northwest corner of Montana. Three major airports serve this area. Spokane, WA, about 3 hours away, Kalispell, MT about 2 hours away, and Missoula, MT about 4 hours away.

If you are heading to our Yaak log cabins, be certain to get your groceries before you head for the Yaak. That means either Bonners Ferry, Idaho, Troy or Libby, Montana depending on which direction you’re traveling.

Kootenai River Lodge

As one lodging option, and more suitable for groups of up to 8 people, is our Kootenai River Lodge. It’s no exaggeration to say this is an extraordinary piece of property. Situated on 8 acres in Libby, Montana with big, green lawns and right on the bank of the Kootenai River, the Lodge is also fully furnished, well-appointed including all kitchen and cooking utensils, and offers spectacular views of the river and the Cabinet Mountains out the front door. Four bedrooms and two baths with a spacious living/dining room help make the lodge a great place for your family or group to base from while fishing or hunting with us here in Kootenai country.

We offer two different packages here at the lodge. Generally speaking we do not mix parties at the lodge. You are there with your group and that’s it.

1. Our full-service fly fishing package is all-inclusive with meals prepared by Joanne. Instead of singing the praises of Joanne’s culinary experience, suffice it to say that Joanne would easily be included in a list of the best and most accomplished and praised chefs in the industry. For over twenty years she has been preparing meals for Linehan Outfitting Company guests by cooking with fresh, locally grown organic ingredients with a dedication to being thoughtful and innovative about meals.
2. We also offer a package at our lodge without meals. Basically you rent the entire place yourself and do your own meals.

Yaak Valley Log Cabins 

We have three handcrafted log cabins located in Yaak Valley, Montana. They are well-appointed, have everything you need, and are easily accessible off the main Yaak road just beyond the 35 mile mark in the upper valley. Access to the Yaak River and the surrounding Kootenai National forest is immediate offering easy family activity time if you desire. These are some of the coziest Montana cabin rentals you’ll find across the state.

Each rental cabin has a queen bed, sleeping loft with two twin beds, one bathroom, a full kitchen, and a gas grill on the porch. We want to assure you that they are also well equipped and furnished with all kitchen and cooking utensils and we want your stay here at our Yaak Valley, Montana log cabins to be restful, easy, comfortable, and without worries. All you need to bring are groceries and personal items. We provide flannel sheets, down comforters, and satellite Internet connections. The stars here are so bright at night that you can practically hear them. All of these benefits make for a wonderful stay in Yaak at our Montana cabin rentals.

Gourmet Meals under the Stars

Our full-service fly fishing package is all-inclusive with meals prepared by Joanne. Instead of singing the praises of Joanne’s culinary experience, suffice it to say that Joanne would easily be included in a list of the best and most accomplished and praised chefs in the industry. For over twenty years she has been preparing meals for Linehan Outfitting Company guests by cooking with fresh, locally grown organic ingredients with a dedication to being thoughtful and innovative about meals.

Sample Menues

SAMPLE MENU #1

• Mixed Organic Greens with Balsamic Vinaigrette and Goat Cheese Cake
• Bison Short Ribs with Merlot Gravy and Horseradish Gremolata
• Mashed Red Bliss Potatoes
• Roasted Green Beans
• Homemade Bing Cherry Ice Cream with Chocolate Shortbread Cookies and Warm Chocolate Sauce

SAMPLE MENU #2

• Spinach Pear Salad with Curried Cashews and Sesame Vinaigrette
• Pepper Crusted Tenderloin of Beef with Morel Mushroom Sauce
• Potato, Cheddar, and Herb Gratin
• Pan Roasted Broccoli
• Pear Almond Tarts with Caramel Sauce and Sweet Cream

SAMPLE MENU #3

• Country Greek Salad
• Grill Roasted Turkey Breast with Cranberry Jam
• Cornbread Pudding
• Sautéed Asparagus and Snap Peas
• Peach Cornmeal Shortcakes with Candied Pecans and Sweet Cream

SAMPLE MENU #4

• Insalata Caprese
• Parmesan Crusted Lamb Shanks
• Creamy Polenta
• Sautéed Kale
• Chocolate Mousse Cake with Coffee Crème Anglaise

SAMPLE MENU #5

• Smoked BBQ Pork Shoulder
• Sautéed Sweet Corn
• Creamy Coleslaw
• Cornbread with Honey Butter
• Strawberry Country Cake